Steve Smith creates history in Darwin, equals Joe Root’s world record in 124 Tests

Steve Smith etched his name into the Test record books on Day 2 of the first Test against Bangladesh, equalling Joe Root’s world record for the most catches by a non-wicketkeeper in Test cricket. Smith started the match with 215 catches and completed the landmark by taking three catches at second slip during Bangladesh’s first innings. He held on to edges from Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das to reach 218 catches in just his 124th Test.

Smith matches Root’s record in 42 fewer Tests

Smith’s achievement stands out for the speed with which he reached the landmark. The Australian has now taken 218 catches in 124 Tests, while England’s Root needed 166 Tests to reach the same tally. Smith also got there 89 innings earlier than Root.The two now share the top spot on the all-time list for most Test catches by a non-wicketkeeper.

Bangladesh put Australia in trouble

Bangladesh moved within six wickets of a historic Test victory over Australia after the hosts ended Day 3 on 161/4, still 67 runs behind Bangladesh’s first-innings total of 426.Hasan Mahmud continued his dominance, taking two wickets in the second innings after his 6/55 in the first, taking his match tally to eight. Mehidy Hasan Miraz also made a crucial impact, scoring 65 before dismissing Steve Smith for 44 to further dent Australia’s hopes.Australia’s Josh Hazlewood claimed 6/89 and reached the milestone of 300 Test wickets, becoming the ninth Australian to achieve the feat.Cameron Green (43*) and Alex Carey (19*) remained unbeaten at stumps, but Australia face a huge task to overcome the deficit and set Bangladesh a competitive target. Bangladesh are now firmly in control and eyeing one of the biggest Test wins in their history.